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Particles and Air Cleaners

This page last reviewed November 26, 2014

Reducing Exposure to Particulate Pollutants

Particulate pollutants are found both indoors and outdoors. They include very small (often invisible) particles from combustion sources such as motor vehicle exhaust, cigarette smoke, cooking, and woodburning activities; biological components such as pollen and mold spores, and dust mite allergens; and fine fibers such as asbestos. Particulate pollutants can cause a variety of harmful health effects. These effects include cough, nasal irritation, lung infection, allergy symptoms, asthma, chronic lung conditions, cancer, and premature death. There are many actions you can take to reduce your and your family's exposure to particulate pollutants.

Air Cleaners

The most effective way to reduce exposure to indoor pollutants is to first remove sources of pollution or reduce pollutant emissions. A second important action is to provide
adequate ventilation. If these actions do not resolve indoor air quality problems, sensitive individuals may benefit from using a central air filter or a good air cleaner in one or more rooms of the house. Air filters and air
cleaners can only be effective if they are properly maintained.

Air Cleaners to Avoid

Not all air-cleaning devices are appropriate for home use — some can be harmful to human health. The ARB recommends that ozone generators, air cleaners that intentionally produce ozone, not be used in the home. Ozone is a gas that can cause health problems, including respiratory tract irritation and breathing difficulty (Ozone and Health).